New Driver Point Rules Take Effect, Making Suspensions Easier to Reach

Key changes include:

• Alcohol- or drug-related incidents and aggravated unlicensed operation will now carry 11 points, up from 0 points under the previous system.
• Offenses involving public safety and infrastructure damage — such as passing a stopped school bus, speeding in construction zones, and over-height vehicle or bridge strikes — will now carry 8 points.
• The penalty for driving while using a cell phone remains 5 points.
• The license suspension threshold is changing:
  • Previously: 11 points within 18 months
  • Now: 10 points within 24 months

Under the new rules, drivers can reach suspension more quickly due to both higher point values and the extended 24-month lookback period.

New DMV license points rules raise penalties